Making sense of food science and nutrition news can be a challenge. But overwhelming evidence shows what we eat and drink may make a substantial difference in the length and quality of our lives. On the Table is dedicated to bringing you information and commentary that helps you make sense of diet and health news, providing insights and tools to help you make informed decisions that support your health and the health of your family and community. The column appears every Wednesday in The News & Observer of Raleigh and The Charlotte Observer.

Suzanne Havala Hobbs, DrPH, MS, RD, FADA is an expert and author on food, nutrition and health policy. Among the topics addressed in her column are meal planning and cooking tips, food trends and federal policies on dietary guidance and food safety. She is a licensed, registered dietitian and a clinical associate professor in the Department of Health Policy and Management and the Department of Nutrition in the Gillings School of Global Public Health at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. {more}

Cut red meat and extend your life
A new study adds to the evidence that red meat can harm health. {more}

My latest book, "Get the Trans Fat Out: 601 Simple Ways to Cut the Trans Fat Out of Any Diet," explains what trans fats are and easy ways to avoid them. {more}